Teaching New Shooters

[DreadPirate]

Although I am always on the lookout to expose a person who has never used a firearm to the joys of shooting, I have put in an extra effort this month for NRA Mentor Month. I have taught four new shooters, and evry single one has either purchased a new firearm on the spot (the range I use is also a retailer), or is currently in the shopping/selection process.

For introducing new shooters, I prefer .22 LR and .410. It allows them to concentrate on learning the mechanics without flinching at the big boom. Below is my current teaching kit:

From top to bottom: Henry Golden Boy .22 S-L-LR; Crescent No. 66 Quail Hammerless .410 SxS, Browning Semi-Auto 22 .22LR; Ruger 22/45 MK III .22LR & Heritage Rough Rider .22LR

The only others I would like to eventually add are a .410 pump and .22 AR, and maybe a 1911 .22LR.

Does anyone else have a go-to kit of firearms for newbie instruction?

 

[GeauxLSU]

First off, GOOD ON YOU!
I don't have a "go to" kit as it depends on the person but yes a .22 and .410 are always the first. But I generally have some 'step ups' along and we move up in horsepower based on their comfort level and desire.

 

[DreadPirate]

But I generally have some 'step ups' along and we move up in horsepower based on their comfort level and desire.

Absolutely! On of my "students" was a guy from Guinea (West Africa), has been in the United States for 8 years and is now a full citizen. Once I did the basics on the low-calibers, he lit into a range of firearms that I had brought, and that were also available at the rental counter. His favorites? My Colt LT6720-R TALO and a Kimber 1911. He loved the big boom, and is currently shopping for a 1911.

 

[rustyboy]

I'm taking a group next weekend. Rough Rider and M&P 22, then step up with Smith 19 and Glock 17. Marlin/Glenfield bolt action 22 and 10/22, then step up to Sub2k and my 20" AR.

At leats that's the plan. 4 non-shooters and 3 never-have shooters. I can't wait.

 

[DreadPirate]

I'm taking a group next weekend. Rough Rider and M&P 22, then step up with Smith 19 and Glock 17. Marlin/Glenfield bolt action 22 and 10/22, then step up to Sub2k and my 20" AR.

At leats that's the plan. 4 non-shooters and 3 never-have shooters. I can't wait.

Fantastic! I wish you hadn't mentioned the bolt action .22 though, because now that's got me thinking about buying another rifle.

 

[batoncolle]

Yeah it's one of my favorite things to do. I just lay a bunch out on the table and generally start with the 22s. Suppressors also make shooting a lot more enjoyable for newbies.

 

[JkEnder]

I have taken several friends and coworkers who had never been shooting before. I have a membership at a local indoor range. I usually start on a 22 from the range (don't own any yet but am in the market) and move on to a 9mm. I have found that the G19 makes a great pistol to start on. Usually bring along a 20 gauge and a basic AR with red dot. I think introducing new shooters to the sport is the best way to help ensure 2A rights. More shooters=more voting gun owners.

 

[DreadPirate]

Suppressors also make shooting a lot more enjoyable for newbies.

Suppressors have that "wow" factors for newbies as well. That is another buy on my list.

 

[batoncolle]

Suppressors have that "wow" factors for newbies as well. That is another buy on my list.

Yep. Especially kids. They love em, and it's much easier to get them interested in it.

And it's an addiction.

 

[DreadPirate]

And it's an addiction.

That's what I am afraid of, it will be an addiction. Not for the kids, but for me.